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Jordan Henderson will miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a broken wrist in a freak accident, although the former Liverpool midfielder hopes to remain with the England squad in the United States.
The 36-year-old sustained the injury while climbing over advertising boards to celebrate with travelling supporters following England’s victory over Mexico.He is set to undergo surgery, bringing a heartbreaking end to what could be his final major international tournament.
Henderson was carried off the pitch on a stretcher, given oxygen and taken to hospital in Mexico City for treatment, while the rest of the England squad returned to Kansas City.
Despite the setback, Henderson is determined to stay with the squad to offer his support and has remained in regular contact with his teammates.
England defender Marc Guehi admitted the incident left the squad shaken but said Henderson is recovering well after the initial scare.
Guehi told the FA’s Lions’ Den show: “Hendo’s good, man. Hendo’s in a better place than he was yesterday, and it was obviously scary for him and his family and for everyone else, but we’re just glad that he’s on the road to speedy recovery.”
England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted his disappointment after the match and confirmed that Henderson will miss the upcoming World Cup quarter-final against Norway.
“I’m sad because Jordan injured his wrist,” Tuchel told reporters. “It’s quite serious. He’s in hospital. It doesn’t fit with the rest of the evening. I don’t know the procedure.”
The loss of Henderson deprives England of a key leader in the dressing room after the midfielder recently earned his 90th international cap.
Although his involvement on the pitch has been limited this summer, with his only appearance coming as a late substitute against Panama, his experience and influence were considered valuable assets for Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
His absence comes at a difficult time for England, with defender Jarell Quansah also sent off during the same match, further reducing Tuchel’s available options ahead of the quarter-final clash with Norway.
The English Football Association, meanwhile, is considering an appeal against Quansah’s dismissal. No final decision has yet been made as the FA continues to review all available options.